Being officially recognized by the CFA Institute asserts that PSU’s MSFA coursework upholds the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) and emphasizes the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. This program prepares students to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation, which has become the most respected and recognized investment credential in the world.

“Students in these programs study the Candidate Body of Knowledge, which include knowledge, skills, and abilities that investment experts worldwide have identified as essential best practice,” said Stephen Horan, Ph.D., CFA, CIPM, Head, University Relations & Private Wealth. “By mastering the fundamentals of the CFA Program as well as the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, these future investment professionals join us in our mission to promote the highest standards of ethics, education, and professional excellence for the ultimate benefit of society.”

This endorsement clearly positions PSU’s MSFA program and signals to potential students, employers, and the marketplace that PSU’s MSFA curriculum is aligned with professional practices. Also with this recognition, the program is entitled to award five CFA Program Awareness Scholarships to students each fiscal year.

"I am very pleased that the CFA Institute has welcomed PSU’s MSFA program into the University Recognition Program,” said Nickel. “It is another confirmation that the MSFA program helps prepare students for successful careers in accounting and finance. This specific designation acknowledges that students in the MSFA Investment Management Specialization Track will be well positioned to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst designation."

Established in 2000, the MSFA program at PSU’s School of Business offers a unique dual-focused program that prepares students with a background in finance or accounting for advanced careers in the financial field. The MSFA program offers specialization tracks in Corporate Financial Management, Public Accounting and Investment Management. The degree may be completed in one year for full-time students and in two years for part-time students.